'I Don't Have a Gambling Problem': Falcons Star Calvin Ridley Reveals Suspension Thoughts

The Atlanta Falcons receiver commented on his suspension minutes after the news broke.

Cole Thompson | Mar 7, 2022

Minutes after the NFL announced it was suspending Atlanta Falcons star Calvin Ridley indefinitely after betting on games in the 2021 season, the wide receiver took to social media to quickly react to the news.

Calvin Ridley

I bet 1500 total I don’t have a gambling problem
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) March 7, 2022

Ridley, 27, confirms that he bet on games, but claims he only bet $1500 and that he does not have a gambling problem.

Ridley was placed on NFI list in October after stepping away from football due to personal issues. The league released a statement on Ridley's status Monday afternoon.

"A league investigation uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used on any game compromised in any way," The statement read. "no but is there evidence suggesting any awareness by coaches, staff, teammates, or players in his betting activity."

Ridley played in five games last season before leaving the organization to work on off-field concerns. According to Falcons' general manager Terry Fontenot and coach Arthur Smith, the fifth-year receiver has stayed away from the facility since his departure in Week 6.

When asked at the NFL Scouting Combine of his status, Fontenot said that the team remains at an impasse with his role in the organization moving into free agency. Atlanta picked up his fifth-year option prior to the start of the 2021 season.

"It's just not something that we can talk about at this point," Fontenot said Tuesday. "I understand the frustration from everyone regarding (the situation). It's just not something that we can talk about right now. At the appropriate time, we will share everything we can."

The Falcons released a statement on the actions taken against the receiver Monday afternoon.

"We were first made aware of the league's investigation on Feb. 9. We have cooperated fully with the investigation since receiving notice and support the league's findings and actions," The team wrote per its official website. "We are moving forward in the 2022 season with the decision that was made. With the decision that was made by the NFL, any further questions on the investigation should be directed to the league office."

Ridley may apply for reinstatement to the league starting on Feb. 15, 2023. He also has a right to appeal the suspension.

In four years with the Falcons, Ridley has recorded 248 receptions for 3,342 yards and 28 touchdowns. If the team were to free themselves of the final year of his contract, Atlanta would save $11.1 million in cap space.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also wrote in a letter notifying Ridley of his suspension:

"For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered among the most significant violations of league policy warranting the most substantial sanction. In your case, I acknowledge and commend you for your promptly reporting for an interview, and for admitting your actions."

Calvin Ridley

In recent mock drafts, the Falcons have found themselves landing another receiver with the No. 8 pick. Early favorites for Atlanta in the first round include Ohio State's Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, USC's Drake London and Arkansas' Treylon Burks.

Stay up to date with FalconReport.com for everything surrounding Ridley and his status with the organization moving forward.

Published Mar 7, 2022

COLE THOMPSON

Cole Thompson is a sports writer and columnist covering the NFL and college sports for SI's Fan Nation. A 2016 graduate from The University of Alabama, follow him on Twitter @MrColeThompson